Nasal Congestion During Pregnancy

Who experiences nasal congestion during pregnancy?

Nasal congestion and runny nose are very common conditions for many expectant mothers during pregnancy. Even if no allergic condition or viral infection is encountered in approximately 30% of expectant mothers, nasal congestion may be encountered.

When does nasal congestion begin to occur during pregnancy?

In some expectant mothers, nasal congestion may begin to show itself in the second month of pregnancy. This nasal congestion may worsen in later stages. After the completion of birth, nasal congestion begins to return to normal and completely disappears in about 2 weeks. One of the most important reasons for this nasal congestion that bothers mothers during pregnancy is the increased estrogen hormone levels during pregnancy.

Could nasal congestion during pregnancy be a symptom of another disease?

If there is no other problem besides nasal congestion, then it can only be said that nasal congestion caused by pregnancy. However, if symptoms such as sneezing, cough, sore throat, pain, swollen glands, fever are also seen in addition to nasal congestion, it is most likely an infectious condition such as a cold.

Sinus infections are very common during pregnancy. If you also have fever, headache, green or yellow mucus, or trouble smelling, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.

On the other hand, if a runny or stuffy nose is accompanied by symptoms such as sneezing, itching in the eyes, nose, throat and ears, then it can be an allergic condition. It is unpredictable what allergies will occur during pregnancy. Allergies can get better or worse. If a condition such as nasal congestion develops due to an allergic condition, one should be careful about that allergen and stay away from it.

What should be done to relieve nasal congestion during pregnancy?

• One should drink plenty of fluids during the day and keep the head elevated when sleeping at night.
• Steam can relieve nasal congestion for a while. A warm bath is also good for nasal congestion. It may also be helpful to hold a small towel moistened with hot water to your face and breathe in the air.
• A nasal spray recommended by your doctor can be used.
• Using a humidifier that will moisturize the air in the house will be beneficial for the expectant mother. This humidifier should also be kept close to the bed while sleeping at night.
• To breathe comfortably, more than one pillow should be placed under the head.
• You should not exercise outside in very polluted or very hot weather. However, exercising indoors can help relieve nasal congestion.
• Cigarette smoke, alcohol and various chemical-containing scents and paints should be avoided. These can irritate the inside of the nose and make breathing difficult.

Taking medicine for nasal congestion

There is no need to use medication for nasal congestion during pregnancy. However, if this congestion is causing the expectant mother a lot of trouble, then a doctor should be contacted as soon as possible. During the first 3 months of pregnancy, medication should not be used. Medication used during these months can harm the baby. Medication should not be taken unless it is very necessary and your doctor gives permission.

When should you go to the doctor?

This condition, which occurs during pregnancy, is generally seen as nasal congestion only and is not accompanied by any other symptoms. If there is another illness (coughing, sneezing, sore throat, swelling of the lymph nodes, fever, etc.) then there may be another condition. In such a case, nasal congestion may be related to a different cause and a doctor should be consulted as soon as possible.